Door and doorstop for portable one use drug delivery apparatus

ABSTRACT

An aspect of some embodiments of the current application is a doorstop to a drug delivery apparatus that encourages a user of the apparatus to perform the proper usage steps in the proper order. For example, a user may be expected to receive an injector in a transport state, open it to an open state, insert a cartridge, and/or close the cartridge before operation. The doorstop may have an obstructing mode, optionally preventing closing of the door. The cartridge may optionally have a non-obstructing mode allowing closing of the door. Inserting the cartridge may optionally cause a doorstop to move from the obstructing mode to the non-obstructing mode. In the non-obstructing mode the doorstop may optionally prevent removal of the cartridge.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/733,516, filed Jan. 3, 2013, and the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to amulti-mode door and/or doorstop for a disposable drug delivery apparatusand, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a doorstop that preventsa door of a drug delivery apparatus from locking until a medicinecartridge is inserted.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,157,769 to Cabin discloses a cartridge insertionassembly including apparatus with a pathway formed therein, a cartridgeinsertable into the pathway, the cartridge including a cartridgecoupling element connectable to an activation mechanism disposed in theapparatus operative to cause a substance contained in the cartridge tobe metered out of the cartridge, and a door pivoted to the apparatusthat includes a door coupling element arranged with respect to thecartridge such that when the door is in a fully closed mode, the doorcoupling element couples the cartridge coupling element with a couplingelement of the activation mechanism.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,749,194 to Edwards et al. discloses an auto-injector,which can comprise: a vial configured to store and/or contain aninjectable medicament, the vial defining a vial longitudinal axis, and ahousing comprising the vial. In various embodiments, the injectablemedicament can be a medicine, medication, drug, pharmaceutical,prescriptive, agent, antidote, anti-venom, hormone, stimulant,vasodilator, anesthetic, and/or nutritional supplement that issubstantially ready for injection.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,588,559 to Aravena et al. discloses an intraosseousinjection device including a tool having a distal portion, a proximalportion, and a solution dispensing opening. The distal portion has oneor more cutting surfaces. The tool can be coupled with a protectivecarrier. The tool can be rotatably coupled to a tool actuationmechanism. A housing has a distal end and a proximal end. The housingreleasably receives a solution cartridge containing a solution. Asolution dispensing mechanism dispenses solution from the solutioncartridge. A gripping member grips a proximal portion of the tool. Arotation device rotates the gripping member and thereby rotates the toolabout an axis. The proximal portion of the tool connects directly to thesolution cartridge such that solution from the cartridge can bedelivered through the solution dispensing opening. The tool isconfigured to rotate relative to the solution cartridge.

United States Patent Application 2009/0093793 to Gross et al. disclosesan apparatus for administering a substance to a subject. A vial containsthe substance, an inner surface of the vial being shaped to define aprotrusion therefrom. A stopper within the vial is slidably coupled tothe vial. A first threaded element is (a) rotatable and (b)substantially immobile proximally with respect to the vial duringrotation of the first threaded element. A second threaded element isthreadedly coupled to the first threaded element. The protrusion impedesrotation of the second threaded element with respect to the vial. Thedistal end of the second threaded element remains proximal to a distalend of the stopper during rotation of the first threaded element. Thefirst threaded element, by rotating, linearly advances the stopper andthe second threaded element toward a distal end of the vial. Otherembodiments are also described.

United States Patent Application 2008/0097381 to Moberg et al. disclosesa delivery device including a durable housing portion and a separabledisposable portion that selectively engage and disengage from eachother. The disposable housing portion secures to the patient-user andmay be disposed of after it has been in use for a prescribed period.Components that normally come into contact with a patient-user or withinfusion medium are supported by the disposable housing portion, whilethe durable housing portion supports other components such aselectronics and a drive device. A reservoir is supported by thedisposable housing portion and has a moveable plunger that operativelycouples to the drive device, when the disposable and durable housingportions are engaged.

Additional background art includes U.S. Pat. No. 5,858,001 to Tsals andU.S. Pat. No. 7,967,795 to Cabin.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present inventionthere is provided an insertion assembly for a cartridge in a drugdelivery apparatus including: an apparatus housing; a channel forinsertion of the cartridge formed in the housing; a door to an openingof the channel; a doorstop including a flange and an extension, andwherein the doorstop has two modes, an obstructing mode wherein theflange obstructs closing of the door and wherein the extension extendsto a path of insertion of the cartridge into the channel and anon-obstructing mode wherein the door may close unobstructed by thedoorstop and wherein, when the cartridge is inserted into the channel,the cartridge engages the extension moving the doorstop to thenon-obstructing mode.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the doorstop includes abase, and the flange is held above the base in the obstructing mode,such that when the door rests on the flange the door protrudes from thehousing by a predetermined distance.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the doorstop includes arotating base and wherein the doorstop rotates from the obstructing modeto the non-obstructing mode.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the doorstop includes asliding base and wherein the doorstop slides from the obstructing modeto the non-obstructing mode.

According to some embodiments of the invention, in the non-obstructingmode the doorstop blocks an exit of the channel, impeding removal of thecartridge from the channel.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the cartridge includes aflange and the engaging is by the cartridge flange.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the door has at leastthree states: a fully open state wherein the door clears an opening tothe channel enough to allow insertion of a cartridge into the channeland wherein in the fully open state the door protrudes from theapparatus, a transport state wherein the door at least partiallyobstructs the opening and wherein in the transport state the doorprotrudes from the apparatus less than the protruding during the openstate, and a fully closed state wherein the door obstructs the openingenough to prevent both insertion and removal of the cartridge throughthe opening; and wherein the door moves freely between the transportstate and the fully open state.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the door includes anotch on an inside surface thereof, the notch supporting a projectionfrom the cartridge when the door is in the closed state.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the door is mounted on apivot and wherein the door pivots between the states.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the door includes acoupler, the coupler located such that in when the door is in the closedstate the coupler couples a movable element of the cartridge to a motiveelement in apparatus.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the assembly furtherincludes a latch and wherein, in the fully closed state the latchreversibly latches the door.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the assembly furtherincludes a latch and wherein, in the closed state the latch permanentlylocks the door.

According to some embodiments of the invention, in the permanentlylocked state the door is latched to the doorstop in the non-obstructingmode.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the assembly furtherincludes a hook mounted to the doorstop and wherein latching is to thehook.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the assembly furtherincludes a stabilizer maintaining the doorstop in the obstructing mode,until a force greater than a threshold value moves the doorstop into thenon-obstructing mode.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present inventionthere is provided a method of preparing a drug delivery apparatus foruse the apparatus including a housing having a insertion channel and acartridge configured for insertion into the channel and a door to thechannel including: supplying the apparatus in a transport state whereinthe door at least partially blocks the channel and wherein a doorstop isin a obstructing mode, obstructing movement of the door into a fullyclosed state; opening the door; inserting the cartridge and thereby;shifting the doorstop from the obstructing mode into a non-obstructingmode; closing the door, and latching the door.

According to some embodiments of the invention, opening the doorincreases a protrusion of the door from the housing.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method furtherincludes supporting a projection from the cartridge on the door when thedoor is in the closed state.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the opening and closinginclude pivoting the door in a plane of an opening of the channel.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method furtherincludes interconnecting a movable element of the cartridge to a motiveelement of the apparatus by via the closing, wherein the interconnectingis via a coupler mounted to the door.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the latching istemporary.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method furtherincludes supporting the door on the doorstop in the transport state.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method furtherincludes impeding by the doorstop of a removal of the cartridge from thechannel when the doorstop is in the non-obstructing mode.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the doorstop includes apin, and wherein upon closing the door with the cartridge inserted, thecartridge displaces the pin.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the latching is to thedoorstop. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientificterms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ofordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Althoughmethods and materials similar or equivalent to those described hereincan be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention,exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case ofconflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control.In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative onlyand are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way ofexample only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specificreference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that theparticulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrativediscussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, thedescription taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled inthe art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing an exemplary embodiment of preparing adrug delivery apparatus for use;

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating a drug delivery apparatus in atravel state;

FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating a drug delivery apparatus is anopen state;

FIG. 2C is a block diagram illustrating a drug delivery apparatus in aclosed state;

FIG. 3 is a state diagram illustrating exemplary states of a drugdelivery apparatus;

FIG. 4A is an overhead view of an exemplary embodiment of a drugdelivery apparatus in a fully open state;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a drugdelivery apparatus in a fully open state;

FIG. 4C is a detail perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of adoorstop;

FIG. 5A is a schematic side view of a drug delivery apparatus in atransport state;

FIG. 5B is a schematic side view of a drug delivery apparatus in a fullyopen state;

FIG. 6 is an overhead view of an exemplary embodiment of a drug deliveryapparatus in a fully open state with a cartridge ready to insert;

FIG. 7 is an overhead view of an exemplary embodiment of a drug deliveryapparatus in a fully open state with cartridge partially inserted;

FIG. 8A is an overhead view of an exemplary embodiment of a drugdelivery apparatus in a fully open state with a cartridge moving thedoorstop from a obstructing mode to a non-obstructing mode;

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a drugdelivery apparatus in a fully open state with a cartridge moving thedoorstop from a obstructing mode to a non-obstructing mode;

FIG. 9 is an overhead view of an exemplary embodiment of a drug deliveryapparatus in a fully open state with cartridge fully inserted anddoorstop in the non-obstructing mode;

FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a drug delivery apparatus in a fullyclosed state, ready for use;

FIG. 11A is a detail side view of an exemplary embodiment of a drugdelivery apparatus in an open state showing a movable element of acartridge and a coupler;

FIG. 11B is a detail rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a drugdelivery apparatus in an open state showing a movable element of acartridge and a motive element of the drug delivery apparatus;

FIG. 11C is a detail side cutaway view of an exemplary embodiment of adrug delivery apparatus in a closed state showing a movable element of acartridge and a coupler;

FIG. 11D is a detail rear cutaway view of an exemplary embodiment of adrug delivery apparatus in an closed state showing a coupler coupling amovable element of a cartridge to a motive element of the drug deliveryapparatus;

FIG. 12A is a detail side view of an alternative exemplary embodiment ofa drug delivery apparatus in an open state showing a doorstop in anunlocked mode;

FIG. 12B is a detail rear view of an alternative exemplary embodiment ofa drug delivery apparatus in an open state showing movement of adoorstop from an unlocked to a locked mode;

FIG. 12C is a detail side cutaway view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of a drug delivery apparatus in a closed state showing adoorstop in a locked mode;

FIG. 12D is a detail rear cutaway view of an exemplary alternativeembodiment of a drug delivery apparatus in a closed state showing adoorstop in a locked mode;

FIG. 13A is a detail side view of an alternative exemplary embodiment ofa drug delivery apparatus in an open state showing a doorstop in aobstructing mode;

FIG. 13B is a detail side cutaway view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of a drug delivery apparatus in a transport state showing adoorstop in a obstructing mode, preventing closing of a door;

FIG. 13C is a detail rear view of an alternative exemplary embodiment ofa drug delivery apparatus in an open state showing movement of adoorstop from a obstructing to a non-obstructing mode;

FIG. 14A is a detail perspective view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of a drug delivery apparatus in an open state showing adoorstop in a obstructing mode;

FIG. 14B is a detail perspective view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of a doorstop;

FIG. 15A is a detail perspective view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of a drug delivery apparatus in an open state showing adoorstop in a obstructing mode;

FIG. 15B is a detail perspective view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of a doorstop;

FIG. 16A is a schematic chart of force needed to close a drug deliveryapparatus door versus the distance door protrudes from a housing of thedrug delivery apparatus for the doorstop in the obstructing mode;

FIG. 16B is a schematic chart of force needed to open a drug deliveryapparatus door versus the distance door protrudes from a housing of thedrug delivery apparatus for the doorstop in the obstructing mode;

FIG. 17A is a schematic chart of force needed to close a drug deliveryapparatus door versus the distance the door protrudes from a housing ofthe drug delivery apparatus of the apparatus for the doorstop in thenon-obstructing mode;

FIG. 17B is a schematic chart of force needed to open a drug deliveryapparatus door versus the distance door protrudes from a housing of thedrug delivery apparatus for the doorstop in the non-obstructing mode;

FIG. 18A is a schematic chart of force needed to insert a cartridge intoa drug delivery apparatus for the doorstop in the obstructing mode;

FIG. 18B is a schematic chart of force needed to remove a cartridge intoa drug delivery apparatus for the doorstop in the non-obstructing mode;

FIG. 19A is a detail overhead view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of a doorstop wherein the door is latched to the doorstop ina non-obstructing mode; and

FIG. 19B is a detail perspective view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of a doorstop wherein the door is latched to the doorstop.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to amulti-position door and doorstop for a disposable drug deliveryapparatus and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a doorstopthat prevents a door of a drug delivery apparatus from locking until amedicine cartridge is inserted.

Overview

3 State Door

An aspect of some embodiments of the current application is a doorstopto a drug delivery apparatus that encourages a user of the apparatus toperform the proper usage steps in the proper order. For example, a usermay be expected to receive an injector in a transport state, open it toan open state, insert a cartridge, and/or close the cartridge beforeoperation. In some cases the user of the apparatus may be anxious,distracted and/or confused and/or disabled. A doorstop may optionally beprovided to make the performing the proper steps in the proper orderintuitive, simple and/or easy. The doorstop may also deter the user fromperforming an incorrect action and/or the doorstop may also deter theuser from performing an action in an improper order.

Transport State

In some embodiments a delivery apparatus may be supplied to a patient ina transport state configured for transport and/or storage. In thetransport state the apparatus may optionally be configured to be compactand/or to resist damage for example from rough handling. For example, ina transport state, a door of the delivery apparatus may be configured tonot protrude from the housing of the apparatus and/or to protrude verylittle from the housing of the apparatus. A protruding part maysometimes cause an apparatus to be non-compact. A protruding part maysometimes be vulnerable to damage. For example, in the transport state,the door may optionally protrude from the housing of the deliveryapparatus less than 4 mm and/or less than 2 mm. As used herein, thelength of a protrusion of a door from an apparatus means the distancefrom the point on the door furthest from the apparatus to the closestpoint on the apparatus.

In some embodiments, in the transport state, a doorstop may be providedin an obstructing mode. In the obstructing mode, the doorstop mayobstruct closing of the door. For example, in the obstructing mode, thedoorstop may obstruct premature closing of the door for example due tovibrations and/or rough handling and/or inadvertent closing by aconfused patient.

In some embodiments, prior to use of a delivery apparatus, a user may beopen a door. For example, in the transport mode the door may fullyand/or partially block a cartridge channel. Optionally in order beforeinserting a cartridge into the channel, the user may open the door. Thedoor may optionally move easily and/or intuitively from the transportstate to an open state. For example, in the transport state the door mayprotrude slightly from the apparatus. In the transport state, the doormay for example protrude between 0.1 and 0.8 cm. The slight protrusionof the door may help an anxious and/or confused patient intuitivelyunderstand how to open the door.

Open State

In some embodiments, in the open state, a door may clear an opening of acartridge channel enough to insert a cartridge into the opening.Optionally, in the open state, the door may protrude significantly fromthe apparatus, for example the door may protrude a distance rangingbetween 2 and 4 cm. In the open mode the door may protrude for examplebetween 5 and 40 times as much as it protrudes in the transport state.

In some embodiments, while the apparatus is in the open state, the userwill insert a cartridge into the cartridge channel. For example,inserting the cartridge may cause a doorstop to move non-obstructingmode. Optionally the doorstop may move into the non-obstructing modewhen at least a majority of the cartridge has been inserted into thechannel. For example, the doorstop may move into the non-obstructingmode when the cartridge has been inserted to a degree ranging been 60%and 100% of its fully inserted position. In the non-obstructing mode,the doorstop may optionally impede removal of the cartridge from thechannel. For example insertion of the cartridge may optionally causepriming of the apparatus, for example by puncturing a septum. Optionallyit may be undesirable to remove the cartridge after insertion.

Closed State

In some embodiments, moving the doorstop into the non-obstructing modemay allow the door to close and/or permanently lock. In a closed state,the door may optionally inhibit removal, corruption, misuse, and/orreuse of the cartridge and/or the delivery apparatus. Alternativelyand/or additionally in a closed state the door may inhibit dirt and orinfecting organisms from entering the delivery apparatus. Alternativelyand/or additionally in the closed state the door may inhibit a personfrom being injured by the delivery apparatus. Alternatively oradditionally, in a closed state the door may protect the deliveryapparatus from tampering and/or insertion of foreign objects.Optionally, the apparatus may be configured non-operable until the dooris closed.

In some embodiments, a doorstop may prevent opening of a door when thedoor is closed after insertion of a cartridge. For example, a doorstopmay be latch the door to the housing of the apparatus and/or a latch mayattach to the doorstop when the doorstop is in the non-obstructing mode.

In some embodiments, the housing of a drug delivery apparatus mayinclude a supporting structure. The supporting structure may optionallyengage the door and/or support the door when the door is in the closedstate and/or the transport state and/or a permanently locked state.

In some embodiments, a coupler may be mounted on the door. The couplermay optionally transmit power from the drug delivery apparatus to thecartridge when the door is in a closed mode. Optionally, the power maybe used to deliver the drug. Optionally, in a closed state and/or lockedstate, the door may support a component of the drug delivery apparatus.For example, the door may optionally include a notch to support aprojection from said cartridge. For example, the door may support a rearend of the cartridge. Optionally the projection may revolve in thenotch. Optionally, when in a closed state and/or in a locked state, thedoor may serve as a counter force. For example, the door may act as acounter force for pushing a plunger into a syringe to deliver the drug.

In some embodiments the door may pivot. For example, the door may pivotin the plane of the opening of the cartridge channel. Alternatively oradditionally, the door may slide. For example, the door may slide in theplane of the opening. Alternatively or additionally, the door may swing.For example, the door may swing on a hinge into and out of the plane ofthe opening.

DETAILED EMBODIMENTS

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, itis to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in itsapplication to the details of construction and the arrangement of thecomponents and/or methods set forth in the following description and/orillustrated in the drawings and/or the Examples. The invention iscapable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out invarious ways.

Method of Preparing a Drug Delivery Apparatus

FIG. 1 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a methodof preparing a drug delivery apparatus for use. For example, thedelivery apparatus may be supplied in a transport state to a user.Optionally, the user may open the delivery apparatus, insert a cartridgeand close a door. Optionally, the apparatus may be designed to encourageproper carrying out of the preparatory steps in the proper order and/orto inhibit improper actions and/or actions in the wrong order. Forexample, a doorstop may optionally be provided in an obstructing mode.In the obstructing mode the doorstop may optionally obstruct prematureclosing of a door. Optionally, inserting a cartridge may move thedoorstop from the obstructing mode to a non-obstructing mode. In thenon-obstructing mode, the doorstop may optionally allow closure of thedoor. Alternatively and/or additionally, in the non-obstructing mode,the doorstop may impede removal of the cartridge.

Referring now to FIG. 1, in some embodiments a drug delivery apparatusmay be supplied 102 in a transport state in a sealed blister. Theblister may protect the apparatus from contamination. The apparatus maybe given 103 to the user in the sealed blister.

In some embodiments, the user may transport 106 the apparatus (forexample a patient may take the apparatus home) and/or store theapparatus. For the sake of transport 106 and/or storage, the apparatusmay be optionally placed in a transport state without large projectingparts that take up space and/or are vulnerable to breakage. For example,in the transport mode, the door may rest on a doorstop so that the dooris almost closed. Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may betransported and/or stored before being given to the patent.

Before use, the user may optionally prepare 104 the apparatus for use.For example, the user may take the apparatus out 107 from its protectiveblister. In some cases, when opening a blister to take out 107 theapparatus a user may apply significant force. The transport mode of theapparatus may optionally be configured to prevent breakage of theapparatus while opening the blister.

In some embodiments, after taking out 107 the apparatus from theblister, a user may open 108 a door of a cartridge channel. Optionallythe user may be a patient. Typically a patient may be anxious, confused,feeling sick, have impaired movement, have impaired senses and/or be inpain. Optionally, a delivery apparatus may be designed to allow easy,safe preparation. For example, preparation may be intuitive and/orinclude safeguards against improper action. Optionally preparation willnot include steps, forces and/or noises that may confuse the patientinto thinking that there has been a malfunction. Optionally, theapparatus may include reassuring noises and/or forces that reassure theuser that he has taken the correct action and/or that the apparatus isworking properly. Optionally, opening the door may be an intuitiveprocess. For example, the door may open 108 with minimal smoothapplication of force (without giving the user the feeling that he isforcing and/or breaking something). Optionally, a user may be inhibitedfrom performing an act that is not correct and/or not in the correctorder. For example, a doorstop may prevent closing 112 of the doorbefore insertion 109 of the cartridge.

In some embodiments, after opening 108 the door, a cartridge is inserted109 into a channel in the apparatus. Optionally, inserting 109 thecartridge will automatically release 110 the doorstop. For example, thedoorstop may be released 110 from the obstructing mode wherein thedoorstop obstructs closing 112 of the door to a non-obstructing mode,wherein the door may be closed 112 freely.

In some embodiments, after inserting 109 the cartridge, the user closes112 the door to the cartridge channel. Optionally, closing 112 the doormay enable 111 delivery of the drug. For example, the door may include acoupler. Optionally, when the door is closed the coupler may connect adrive element to a motive element, enabling 111 delivery. Optionally,when the doorstop is in the non-obstructing position, closing 112 thedoor will cause the door to permanently lock 113. Alternatively oradditionally, locking 113 may occur separately from closing 112 thedoor. For example, locking 113 may occur at some time after closing 112.

In some embodiments, once the door is closed 112 and locked 113 with thecartridge inserted 109 then the apparatus may be used 114. Optionally,after use 114, the sealed apparatus may be safely disposed of 116 forexample in the municipal garbage.

Schematic Illustration of an Exemplary Embodiment of a Drug DeliveryApparatus and Doorstop

Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 2A-C include block diagrams of threestates of a drug delivery apparatus. In some embodiments, a drugdelivery apparatus may have at least three states, a transport state, anopen state and a closed state. Optionally, the correct or order ofpreparation of the apparatus may be to open the apparatus from thetransport state to the open state. Optionally in the open state acartridge will be inserted into a cartridge channel. Optionally, afterinserting the cartridge, the apparatus will be put into the closed stateand used. Optionally the apparatus may include a to doorstop.Optionally, in the transport state, the doorstop may serve to support adoor in a fully or partially closed position and/or to prevent prematureclosing of the door before inserting the cartridge. Optionally,inserting the cartridge will release the doorstop and allow closing ofthe door.

FIG. 2A is illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a drug deliveryapparatus 219 in a transport state. A door 220 may optionally besupported by a hinge 229. In the transport state, door 220 may bepartially closed and protrude 227′ slightly from apparatus 219. In thetransport state, door 220 may optionally be inhibited from closingand/or rest on a doorstop 218 in an obstructing mode. Doorstop 218 mayoptionally include a latch 217. In the transport state door 220 mayoptionally partially and/or completely obstruct a channel 221.

The transport state, for example as illustrated in FIG. 2A, may havesome or all of the following useful properties. Optionally in thetransport state apparatus 219 may have a low profile and/or resistbreaking, for example because there may be no parts that protrudesignificantly from apparatus 219. In the transport mode it mayoptionally be simple and intuitive to open the door, for example,because the door is already partially open and/or because there is nosignificant resistance to further opening the door. In the transportmode, doorstop 218 may obstruct the door from accidental closing, forexample due to vibration during transport, rough handling and/or a humanerror.

In some embodiments, before employing apparatus 219, a user may opendoor 220 into an open configuration, for example as illustrated in FIG.2B. In the open configuration, door 220 may optionally clear channel 221enough to insert a cartridge 224 into channel 221. Doorstop 218 andcartridge 224 may optionally be configured such that inserting cartridge224 moves doorstop 218 from a obstructing mode, for example asillustrated in FIGS. 2A,B, into a non-obstructing mode, for example asillustrated in FIG. 2C. In the open mode, door 220 may protrude 227″significantly from apparatus 219. Optionally, once cartridge 224 hasbeen fully and/or partially inserted into channel 221, latch 217 mayinhibit a user from retracting cartridge 224 back out of channel 221.

In some embodiments, after inserting cartridge 224, the user may closedoor 220, putting apparatus 219 into a closed mode, for example asillustrated in FIG. 2C. In the closed mode, door 220 may optionallyfully and/or partially block the opening of channel 221. Optionally, inthe closed mode, latch 217 may permanently and/or temporarily lock door220.

States of a Drug Delivery Apparatus

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 3 is a state diagram illustratingstates of an exemplary embodiment of a drug delivery apparatus. In someembodiments a doorstop will have at least two modes: an obstructingmode, where the doorstop obstructs closing and/or locking of a door, anda non-obstructing mode, wherein the doorstop does not obstruct closingand/or locking of the door. Optionally in the non-obstructing mode, thedoorstop may impede removal of a cartridge and/or lock the door closed.Optionally, the drug delivery apparatus may have three modes: an openmode, a transport mode and/or a closed mode. Optionally, the closed modemay be permanent and/or temporary. Alternatively or additionally, theapparatus may have a fourth mode, a permanently locked mode.Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may have more modes.

In some embodiments, a drug delivery apparatus may be supplied to a userin a transport state 374′ with the doorstop in an obstructing mode 373.The user may optionally open the door to an open state 372′. The doormay optionally move freely between transport state 374′ and open state372′. With the doorstop in the obstructing mode 373, the apparatus mayoptionally be obstructed from moving to a closed state 376′. With thedoorstop in the obstructing mode, the apparatus may optionally beobstructed from moving to a locked state 378′. Optionally, when theapparatus is in transport state 374′ and/or open state 372′ theapparatus may be prevented from delivering the drug.

In some embodiments, if by some means, a user forces the apparatus intoclosed state 376′ while the doorstop is in obstructing mode 373, thedoor may be able to return to transport state 374′ and/or open state372′. Optionally, with the doorstop in the obstructing mode 373, thedoor may return spontaneously from closed state 376′ to transport state374′ and/or open state 372′. Alternatively or additionally, there may bea temporary latch which can be released by the user to return the doorfrom closed state 376′ to transport state 374′.

In some embodiments, a cartridge may be inserted into the apparatus. Forexample, the cartridge may be inserted while the apparatus is in theopen state. Optionally, inserting a cartridge into the deliveryapparatus may move 370 the doorstop from obstructing mode 373 to anon-obstructing mode 379. Optionally, when the doorstop is innon-obstructing mode 379, removal of the cartridge may be impeded.

In some embodiments, the doorstop may be stable and/or bi-stable. Forexample, the doorstop may be prevented from moving spontaneously fromthe obstructing mode 373 to non-obstructing mode 379. Alternatively oradditionally it may be prevented from moving spontaneously fromnon-obstructing mode 379 to obstructing mode 373. Optionally, movementof doorstop may be one direction, for example once in thenon-obstructing mode 379 it may remain there permanently and not returnto obstructing mode 373. Alternatively or additionally the doorstop maynot be stabilized.

With the doorstop in the non-obstructing mode 379, the apparatus mayoptionally be able to move from open state 372″ and/or transport state374″ to a closed state 376″. With the doorstop in the non-obstructingmode 379, the apparatus may optionally be able to move to a locked state378″. Optionally, unless the apparatus is in the closed state 376″and/or locked state 378″ the apparatus may be prevented from deliveringthe drug. Optionally, when the apparatus is in the closed state 376″and/or locked state 378″ the apparatus may deliver the drug.

In some embodiments, after a user place the apparatus into closed state376″ while the doorstop is in non-obstructing mode 379. Optionally, thedoor may be able to return from closed state 376″ to transport state374″ and/or open state 372″. Alternately or additionally, with thedoorstop in the non-obstructing mode 379, the doorstop may obstruct thedoor from returning from closed state 376″ and/or there may be atemporary latch which can be released by the user to return the doorfrom closed state 376″ to transport state 374″. While the doorstop is innon-obstructing mode 379, the door may optionally be moved to apermanently locked state 378″.

Detailed Exemplary Embodiment of a Drug Delivery Apparatus and Doorstop

Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 4-11 illustrate a detailed exemplaryembodiment of a drug delivery apparatus. The apparatus of FIGS. 4-11optionally includes a door that pivots open and closed parallel to theplane of the opening to a cartridge channel. Optionally the apparatusincludes a doorstop. Optionally, in a transport state the doorstop is inan obstructing mode. Optionally, in the transport state, the door isnearly closed and rests on the doorstop. Optionally, with the doorstopin an obstructing mode, the door is obstructed from closing. Optionally,opening the door allows inserting a cartridge.

In some embodiments, inserting a cartridge into the apparatus switchesthe to doorstop into a non-obstructing mode. Optionally, the switchingis by rotating the doorstop. In the non-obstructing mode, the doorstopoptionally impedes removal of the cartridge. In the non-obstructingmode, the door is optionally allowed to close and permanently lock.

An optional coupling may be mounted to the door. When the door is in theclosed and/or locked state, the coupling may link a motive element ofthe drug delivery apparatus to a movable element of the cartridge.Optionally, when linked to the motive element, the movable element mayinstigate delivery of the drug.

In some embodiments, when the door is closed it may serve as a counterforce for an expanding plunger to deliver the medicine. Alternatively,when permanently closed, the door may protect the apparatus fromtampering and/or protect the apparatus from reuse and/or misuse and/orprotect the user for injury from internal parts of the apparatus.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 4A is an overhead view of anexemplary embodiment of a drug delivery apparatus including a housing419 and a door 420 in a fully open state. A doorstop 418 is shown in anobstructing mode. Door 420 optionally pivots around an axis 429.Optionally while pivoting door 420 remains parallel to the opening of acartridge channel 421. A latch 423 is optionally provided to secure door420 when it closes.

In some embodiments, (for example as illustrated in FIG. 11C) when door420 is closed it may optionally serve as a counter force and/or asupport for a mechanism, for example for a plunger mechanism to eject amedicine. Support may optionally be supplied to door 420 in the closedstate by a rear support 446 and/or a groove 425.

In some embodiments, a stabilizer 422 may provide bi-stability todoorstop 418. For example, in FIG. 4A, stabilizer 422 may include anubble. Doorstop 418 may cross over the nubble to move from theobstruction mode to the non-obstructing mode. For example, in FIG. 4A,stabilizer 422 holds doorstop 418 in the obstruction mode. In order tomove doorstop 418 from the obstruction mode into the non-obstructionmode optionally entails a force to rotate doorstop 418 over stabilizer422. For example, as the cartridge is fully inserted passing stabilizer422 may give the user a reassuring feeling of doorstop 418 clicking intoplace. Optionally, when doorstop 418 is in the non-obstruction (forexample see FIG. 9) a force may be entailed to rotate doorstop 418 overstabilizer 422 into the obstruction mode. For example, stabilizer 422may prevent vibrations (for example during transport and/or handling)from moving doorstop 418 out of a desired mode.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 4B is a perspective view an exemplaryembodiment of a drug delivery apparatus with door 420 in a fully openstate. In FIG. 4B, optional details of doorstop 418 are illustrated. Forexample, doorstop 418 includes a flange 444 to obstruct door 420.Optionally, in the transport mode, door 420 rests on flange 444.Optionally, rear support 446 prevents door 420 from passing behindflange 444, for example circumventing doorstop 418.

In some embodiments, doorstop 418 may include a spacer 442. For example,when doorstop is in the non-obstructing mode (for example see FIG. 9)spacer 442 may stick out into the exit path of the cartridge. If a usertries to remove a cartridge while doorstop 418 is in the non-obstructingmode, the cartridge may optionally collide with spacer 442 rotatingdoorstop 418 toward the obstructing mode and impeding removal of thecartridge.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 4C, shows a close up perspective ofthe exemplary embodiment of doorstop 418, flange 444 and spacer 442.Doorstop 418 includes for example a rotating base 443. An extension 441is optionally bent according to the inner surface of door 420. The bentshape of extension 441 holds, for example, flange 444 in a closing pathof door 420. In the obstructing mode, extension 441 projects into thepath of the cartridge entering channel 221. For example, in theobstructing mode, extension 441 bends along the inner edge of door 420,projecting into the beginning of the path of the cartridge. Extension441 optionally has a twisted shape that distances flange 444 above base443. The protrusion of door 420 is the transport mode may optionallyresult, in part, from the distance of flange 444 above base 443.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 5A illustrates side view of exemplarydrug delivery apparatus housing 419 in a transport state. In theexemplary embodiment of FIG. 5A, in the transport state, door 420 restson doorstop 418. For example doorstop 418 holds door 420 a fewmillimeters above its closed state (for example as illustrated in FIG.10). Optionally, in the transport state door 420 protrudes 527′ a fewmillimeters above housing 419. The slight protrusion may, for example,help a user to understand how and where to open door 420.

FIG. 5B is a side view illustration of door 420 in an open state. In theexample of FIG. 5B, in the open state, door 420 protrudes 527″considerably more to than in the transport mode (as illustrated, forexample, in FIG. 5A). Also seen in FIG. 5B are an optional coupler 584and an optional hub 599. An exemplary embodiment of coupler 584 will beexplained in the text accompanying FIG. 11. An exemplary embodiment of ahub 599 will be explained in the text accompanying FIG. 11. An optionalhook 531 to grasp latch 423 is illustrated in FIG. 5.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 6 illustrates an overhead view of anexemplary embodiment of a drug delivery apparatus. In FIG. 6, anexemplary embodiment of an optional cartridge 624 is illustrated. InFIG. 6, cartridge 624 is shown ready for insertion into channel 421.

In some embodiments, cartridge 624 is in the form of a syringe barrel.Optionally, cartridge 624 includes a flange 626. Flange 626 may be, forexample, similar to flanges on standard syringes. For example, flange626 may be at or towards the rear end (opposite the tip) of the syringe.

In some embodiments, an optional telescoping assembly 692 may besupplied. Assembly 692 may optionally be fitted to the open end ofcartridge 624. Telescoping assembly 692 may optionally be driven by amovable element 682 which may, for example, include a gear. Optionally,the gear revolves telescoping assembly 692. Optionally when door 420 isclosed, coupler 584 connects movable element 682 to a motive element 686(for example see FIG. 11D). Motive element, 686 may optionally supplytorque to drive movable element 682. Assembly 692 may include aprojection 688. For example, projection 688 may be configured to fit ina notch in door 420 (for example hub 599 of FIG. 11C). Optionally,projection 688 may fit into hub 599 when door 420 is closed. Whenprojection 688 is fit into hub 599, projection 688 may optionallysupport the rear end of assembly 692. When movable element 682 revolves,projection 688 may optionally revolve in the hub 599. Telescopingassembly 692 may optionally drive a plunger 693. Plunger 693 may, forexample, be driven by telescoping assembly 692 into cartridge 624 todeliver a drug.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 7 illustrates an overhead view of anexemplary embodiment of a drug delivery apparatus. In FIG. 7, anexemplary embodiment of an optional cartridge 624 is illustrated in apartially inserted position.

In some embodiments, the sides of cartridge 624 optionally do notcontact doorstop 418 while cartridge 624 is being inserted. This mayhave a few advantages. For example, if cartridge 624 can be removed fromthe partially inserted position of FIG. 7, doorstop 418 remains in theobstruction mode. For example, no irreversible to changes have takenplace. For example, if there is a label on cartridge 624 it will not bescratched by doorstop 418. For example, a user inserting cartridge 624will not be subject to an annoying scratching sensation as he insertsthe cartridge. Along with possible being annoying, the scratchingsensation may in some cases cause a user to believe that he made amistake and/or that the apparatus is not working properly.

Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 8A,B illustrate overhead andperspective views respectively of an exemplary embodiment of a drugdelivery apparatus with a cartridge inserted to a point at which itbegins to switch doorstop 418 from the obstructing mode to thenon-obstructing mode. Optionally, cartridge 624 will switch doorstop 418to non-obstructing mode just before an irreversible process. Forexample, doorstop 418 may be switched from the obstructing mode to thenon-obstructing mode right before the front end of cartridge 624 reachesa needle that pierces a septum. Optionally, in the non-obstructing mode,doorstop 418 may impede removal of cartridge 624. Optionally, switchingdoorstop 418 to the non-obstructing state will impede removal ofcartridge 624 once the septum is pierced.

In some embodiments, a flange 626 will contact doorstop 418 to rotate itand switch it to the non-obstructing state. Flange 626 may optionallyshield movable element 682 from contact and/or damage from doorstop 418.For example, flange 626 moves doorstop 418 into the non-obstructing modewhen the tip of cartridge 624 has been inserted to about 60% its finalposition.

In some embodiments, door 420 may include a feature to engage astructural support in a closed position. The structural support may, forexample be a part of the delivery apparatus housing 419. For example,door 420 may include an indentation 827 that engages with rear support446 upon when door 420 is in a closed state. Optionally, indentation 827may fully and/or partially engage rear support 446 when door 420 is inthe transport state. Engaging rear support 446 strengthens door 420 forexample to prevent breakage by outside forces and/or to prevent door 420from passing behind flange 444 circumventing doorstop 418 and/or toprovide support for hub 599, projection 688 and/or telescoping assembly692.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 9 illustrates an overhead view of adrug delivery apparatus in an open state with doorstop 418 is anon-obstructing mode. Optionally, inserting cartridge 624 rotatesdoorstop 418 into the non-obstructing mode until it collides with a pin948. Optionally in the non-obstructing mode, spacer 442 extends into thepath of cartridge 624. For example, if a user were to try to removecartridge 624, flange 626 will contact the extended spacer 442 and pushdoorstop 418 back into the obstructing mode, impeding removal of thecartridge and preventing closing of door 420. For example, incorrectlytrying to remove the cartridge after piercing the septum may disable theapparatus and cause the user to return to the hospital for propertreatment. Alternatively or additionally, (for example as illustrated inFIGS. 15A-C) in the non-obstructing mode, doorstop may impede removal ofthe cartridge without returning to the obstructing mode. For example,the user would be impeded from removing the cartridge, but would be ableto continue with the drug delivery.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of anexemplary embodiment of a drug delivery apparatus in a closed state. Inthe closed state door 420 may optionally be flush to and/or not protrudefrom housing 419. Optionally, door 420 may permanently lock upon movingto the closed state. Alternatively or additionally, door 420 may betemporarily latched in the closed state and/or permanently locked at alater time.

An Exemplary Transmission Mechanism for an Exemplary Embodiment of aDrug Delivery Apparatus

Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 11A-D illustrate various views of anexemplary transmission mechanism for a drug delivery apparatus. In theexemplary embodiment, a coupler 584 mounted on door 420 transmits powerfrom a motive element 686 of the apparatus to a movable element 682 ofcartridge 624.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 11A is a side view of exemplaryapparatus with door 420 in the open state. In the exemplary embodimentcoupler 584 includes a gear. In the exemplary apparatus, movable element682 includes a gear. It can be seen that, with door 420 is the openstate coupler 584 is optionally disengaged from movable element 682.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 11B is a rear view of exemplaryapparatus with door 420 in the open state. In the exemplary apparatus,motive element 686 includes a gear. When door 420 is in the open state,motive element 686 and movable element 682 are optionally disengaged. InFIG. 11B a latch 1123 can be seen. Optionally latch 1123 latches door420 to rear support 446 when door 420 is in a closed state.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 11C illustrates a side cutaway viewof exemplary drug delivery apparatus in a closed state. FIG. 11Cillustrates an optional hub 599. In some embodiments, hub 599 may bemounted on an inside surface of door 420. When door 420 is in a closedstate, hub 599 may optionally support projection 688. Projection 688 mayoptionally protrude from cartridge 624. For example, projection 688 mayprotrude from a rear end of telescoping assembly 692. When door 420 isin a closed state, hub 599 may optionally act as a counter force whentelescoping assembly expands, for example forcing a plunger 693 intocartridge 624. Optionally, forcing plunger 693 into cartridge 624 maycause delivery of a drug.

In some embodiments, when door 420 is in a closed state a supportingstructure may engage and/or support door 420. For example, in FIG. 11C alip 1126 on door 420 is shown engaged to a groove 425 on apparatushousing 419. When engaged to lip 1126, groove 425 may support door 420.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 11D illustrates a rear cutaway viewof an exemplary apparatus with door 420 in the closed and/or permanentlylocked state. Optionally when door 420 is in the closed and/or lockedstate coupler 584 engages motive element 686 to movable element 682.Optionally, movable element 682 may transmit power to telescopingassembly 692. Optionally, power transmitted from motive element 686through coupler 584 to movable element 682 may cause telescopingassembly 692 to expand, pushing plunger 693 into cartridge 624delivering the drug.

Alternative Embodiments of a Doorstop for a Drug Delivery Apparatus

Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 12A-D illustrate various views of anexemplary alternative embodiment of a door locking mechanism for a drugdelivery apparatus. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 12A-D, a fixedend of a pin 1296 is mounted on a door 1220. Optionally, when there isno cartridge 624 in the apparatus, pin 1296 does not affect movement ofdoor 1220. For example, without cartridge 624, door 1220 may open andclose freely.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 12A is a side view illustrating anexemplary embodiment of door 1220 in the open state.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 12B is a rear view illustrating andexemplary embodiment of door 1220 in the open state. Optionally, whencartridge 624 is inserted into the apparatus and door 1220 is closed,cartridge 624 diverts the free end of pin 1296 under groove 425 and theassociated supporting structure (for example as illustrated in by thedark dashed line 1297 of FIG. 12B)

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 12C illustrates a side cutaway viewof an exemplary drug delivery apparatus with door 1220 in a closedstate. FIG. 11D illustrates a rear cutaway view of an exemplaryapparatus with door 1220 in the closed and/or permanently locked state.Optionally when door 1220 is in the closed and/or locked state withcartridge 624 inserted, the free end of pin 1296 is trapped under groove425 and the associated supporting structure permanently and/ortemporarily locking and/or latching door 1220 in a closed state.

Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 13A-C illustrate various views of anexemplary alternative embodiment of a doorstop for a drug deliveryapparatus. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 13A-C, a fixed end of apin 1396 is mounted on a door 1320.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 13A is a side view illustrating anexemplary embodiment of door 1320 in the open state.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 13B illustrates a side cutaway viewof an exemplary drug delivery apparatus with door 1320 in a transportstate. Optionally, when an attempt is made to close door 1320 when thereis no cartridge 624 in the apparatus, pin 1396 props up door 1320,preventing door 1320 from closing (for example as illustrated in FIG.3C).

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 13C is a rear view illustrating andexemplary embodiment of door 1320 in the open state. Optionally, whencartridge 624 is inserted into apparatus housing 419 and door 1320 isclosed, cartridge 624 diverts the free end of pin 1396 sideways (asillustrated for example by dark dashed lines 1397 in FIG. 13C).Diverting the free end of pin 1396 may optionally prevent pin 1396 frompropping up door 1320, allowing door 1320 to close and/or lock.

Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 14A-B illustrate various views of anexemplary alternative embodiment of a doorstop for a drug deliveryapparatus. FIG. 14A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplaryembodiment of a sliding doorstop 1418 in an obstructing mode. In theobstructing mode, a door obstructing flange 1444 may optionally obstructclosing of door 420. As a cartridge is inserted into a canal 421, thecartridge may optionally collide with a cartridge contacting spacer1442. Further inserting the cartridge may optionally slide doorstop 1418forward along a track 1449 into a non-obstructing mode. In thenon-obstructing mode, flange 1444 may be moved out of the way of door420 allowing closing of door 420. FIG. 14B illustrates a detailedperspective view of exemplary doorstop 1418. Doorstop 1418 optionallyincludes sliding mounts 1443. Doorstop 1418 optionally includes a curvedextension 1441. In the obstructing mode, extension 1441 optionally holdsflange 1444 in path of door 420. Spacer 1442 optionally projects intothe path of cartridge 624 entering channel 421.

Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 15A-B illustrate various views of anexemplary alternative embodiment of a doorstop for a drug deliveryapparatus. FIG. 15A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplaryembodiment of a rotating doorstop 1518 in an obstructing mode. In theobstructing mode, a door obstructing flange 1544 may optionally obstructclosing of door 420. As a cartridge (for example cartridge 624) isinserted into a channel 421, a flange on the rear of the cartridge (forexample flange 626) may optionally collide with a cartridge contacting aspacer 1542. Further inserting the cartridge may optionally rotatedoorstop 1518 about 90 degrees counter clockwise into a non-obstructingmode. In the non-obstructing mode, flange 1544 is moved out of the wayof door 420 allowing closing of door 420. Doorstop 1518 optionallyincludes a rotating base 1543. Doorstop 1518 optionally includes twoarms 1541′ and 1541″. In the obstructing mode, arm 1541′ holds flange1544 in path of door 420. In the obstructing mode, arm 1541″ projectsspacer 1542 into the path of cartridge 624 entering channel 421. In thenon-obstruction mode arm 1541′ holds flange 1544 in the exit path of thecartridge. Each arm 1541′ and 1541″ may optionally bend upward holdingflange 1544 and spacer 1542 above base 1543. Arms 1541′ and 1541″ mayoptionally may extend at different angles from base 1543. For example,arms 1541′ and 1541″ may optionally may extend at right angles from eachother.

In some embodiments, a user will be prevented from removing a cartridgewhen doorstop 1518 is in the non-obstructing mode. An attempt to removethe cartridge may optionally be blocked without disabling the drugdelivery apparatus. For example, an attempt to remove a cartridge (forexample cartridge 624) when doorstop 1518 is in the non-obstructing modewill optionally cause the cartridge flange (for example flange 626) tocollide with flange 1544. After collision with flange 1544, furtherattempts remove the cartridge will optionally rotate doorstop 1518 about45 degrees clockwise until spacer 1542 contacts the body of thecartridge. Optionally at the point where spacer 1542 contacts the bodyof the cartridge, doorstop 1518 may be prevented from further clockwiserotation. Optionally at the point where spacer 1542 contacts the body ofthe cartridge, flange 1544 may still be blocking the rear of thecartridge. Optionally at the point where spacer 1542 contacts the bodyof the cartridge, flange 1544 may not obstruct closing of door 420.Optionally at the point where spacer 1542 contacts the body of thecartridge, door 420 may be closed and the apparatus activated, butremoval of the cartridge will optionally be prevented. FIG. 15Billustrates a detailed perspective view of exemplary doorstop 1518.

Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 19A-B illustrate various views of anexemplary alternative embodiment of a doorstop, wherein the door islatched to the doorstop. FIG. 19A illustrates an overhead view of anexemplary embodiment of a doorstop 1918 in a non-obstructing mode.Doorstop 1918 includes a hook 1931. Optionally, hook 1931 may optionallylock door 1920. In the example, a latch 1923 is provided. Optionally,latch 1923 is connected to the back end of door 1920 by a plate 1996.For example, hook 1931 is positioned such that when doorstop 1918 is inthe non-obstructing mode and door 1920 is closed, latch 1923 catcheshook 1931 locking door 1920. Optionally hook 1931 is positioned suchthat when doorstop 1918 is in the obstructing mode, if a user closesdoor 1920 (for example by using force to deform door 1920) latch 1923will not catch hook 1931 and door 1920 will not lock. Optionally, whenlatch 1923 is caught on hook 1931 door 1920 is permanently locked. FIG.19B illustrates a detailed perspective view of exemplary doorstop 1918and hook 1931.

Various embodiments and aspects of the present invention as delineatedhereinabove and as claimed in the claims section below find support inthe following examples.

EXAMPLES

Reference is now made to the following examples, which together with theabove descriptions illustrate some embodiments of the invention in a nonlimiting fashion.

Force Graphs

Referring now to the Figures, FIG. 16A shows an exemplary simulatedgraph of force to close a door vs. distance a door is protruding for adrug delivery apparatus housing (for example housing 419) with thedoorstop in an obstructing mode. The flat low portion 1660 of the graphfor protrusion between 3.5 cm and 0.3 cm indicates that the door moveseasily between the fully open state (door protruding 4.3 cm) and thetransport state (door protruding about 0.3 cm). The sharp peak 1661 forclosing the door past 0.3 cm indicates that the doorstop is obstructingmoving from the transport state to the closed state (door notprotruding). In the example, the force entailed in closing the door withthe doorstep in the obstructing mode is (peak 1661) approximately 5 kg,optionally, the force entailed may differ. In some embodiments, theforce may be greater. In the exemplary embodiment, the maximumprotrusion of the door is about 3.5 cm. In some embodiments the maximumprotrusion of the door may range for example between 2 and 5 cm. In theexemplary embodiment, the doorstop obstructs the door for protrusionsless than 0.3 cm. In some embodiments, the door stop may obstruct thedoor for example starting at protrusions ranging for example between0.05 to 0.5 cm and/or less. Alternatively or additionally, a doorstopmay allow a door to close, but prevent it from latching.

Referring now to the Figures, FIG. 16B shows an exemplary simulatedgraph of force to open a door vs. distance a door is protruding for adrug delivery apparatus housing (for example housing 419) with thedoorstop in an obstructing mode. The flat low portion 1662 of the graphfor protrusion between 3.5 cm and 0.3 cm indicates that the door moveseasily between the fully open state (door protruding 3.5 cm) and thetransport state (door protruding about 0.3 cm). Optionally it may bedifficult to close the door when the doorstep is in the obstructingposition. In some cases, a user may force the door closed. For anembodiment without an optional temporary latch, the force 1663 decreasesbelow zero for protrusions less than 0.3 cm. With the doorstop in theobstructing mode and for example without an optional temporary latch,the door may optionally spontaneously open from the closed mode to thetransport mode. The force spontaneously opening the door in theexemplary embodiment is shown as for example −0.5 kg. Optionally theforce may be different. In some embodiments the magnitude of the forcemay be greater than 0.5 kg. Alternatively or additionally, in anembodiment with an optional temporary latch, the door may latch closedeven when the doorstop is in an obstructing mode. Then as small force1664 would optionally be entailed to reopen the door. In the exemplaryembodiment the force entailed in opening the latch is approximately 0.9kg. Optionally the force to open a temporary latch may range for examplebetween 0.3 and 4.5 kg or more.

Referring now to the Figures, FIG. 17A shows an exemplary simulatedgraph of force to close a door vs. distance a door is protruding for adrug delivery apparatus to housing (for example housing 419) with thedoorstop in a non-obstructing mode. The flat low portion 1760 of thegraph for protrusion between 3.5 cm and 0.3 cm indicates that the doormoves easily between the fully open state (door protruding 3.5 cm) andthe transport state (door protruding about 0.3 cm). The shallow peak1765 for closing the door past 0.1 cm indicates that a small forcecauses latching and/or locking of the door. In some embodiments closingthe latch could require for example between 0.1 and 4.5 kg.

Referring now to the Figures, FIG. 17B shows an exemplary simulatedgraph of force to open a door vs. distance a door is protruding for adrug delivery apparatus housing (for example housing 419) with thedoorstop in a non-obstructing mode. The flat low portion 1762 of thegraph for protrusion between 3.5 cm and 0.3 cm indicates that the doormoves easily between the fully open state (door protruding 3.5 cm) andthe transport state (door protruding about 0.3 cm). For an embodimentthat is optionally closed with a temporary latch, a small force 1766 isentailed to unlatch the door to move from the closed mode to thetransport and/or open mode. In the exemplary embodiment, the forceentailed in unlatching the temporary latch is approximately 1.5 kg. Insome embodiments, the force to open a temporary latch may range, forexample between 0.3 and 5 kg. Alternatively, when the door is locked, avery significant force 1767 would optionally be entailed to reopen thedoor (for example by breaking the lock and/or the door and/or theapparatus). In the exemplary embodiment, the force entailed opening thelock is approximately 6 kg. In some embodiments, the force to open alock may range, for example from 5 kg to 20 and/or 50 kg and/or more.

Referring now to the Figures, FIG. 18A shows an exemplary simulatedgraph of force to insert a cartridge vs. distance inserted for a drugdelivery apparatus with the doorstop starting in an obstructing mode.The flat low portion 1860 of the graph for insertion between 0 cm and4.8 cm indicates that the cartridge moves freely until it is almostentirely inserted. The shallow peak 1870 for inserting the cartridgepast 4.6 cm indicates that a small force may optionally be entailed tomove the doorstop from the obstructing mode to the non-obstructing mode.For example the force may be entailed to push the doorstop over astabilizer (for example stabilizer 422). Alternatively or additionally,a stabilizer may not be including. Optionally, peak 1870 may range forexample between 0 and 1.5 kg. Alternatively or addition, the point atwhich the cartridge engages the doorstop may range between 0.1 cm and 10cm of insertion. Optionally, after the cartridge passes the doorstop, itmay be primed, for example by puncturing a septum. Puncturing a septummay optionally entail an extra force 1868 at the for example in the last1-5 millimeter or so of insertion. Alternatively or additionally, theremay be an optional latch locking the cartridge into the canal and theremay be an extra force required to pass that latch.

Referring now to the Figures, FIG. 18B shows an exemplary simulatedgraph of force to remove a cartridge vs. the insertion depth of thecartridge tip in a drug delivery apparatus with the doorstop in anon-obstructing mode, for an embodiment wherein the doorstop optionallyimpedes removal of the cartridge. The first movements for a fullyinserted cartridge may entail a force 1871, for example to pull a needleout of the septum and/or to pass an optional locking latch locking thecartridge in the fully inserted position. Optionally, a force 1869 isentailed to move the cartridge past the doorstop (for example bybreaking the doorstop and/or the cartridge and/or the apparatus).Alternatively, the doorstop may optionally not impede removal of thecartridge in which case the peak in force 1869 may not occur. The flatlow portion 1862 of the graph for removing the cartridge after theflange has cleared the doorstop (at about 0.3 cm) indicates that oncethe cartridge has cleared the doorstop and when the door is open, thecartridge may optionally be removed easily. The force of peaks 1869 and1871 are shown as about 6 kg. Alternatively the force to for thecartridge to pass a locking latch or the doorstop may range for examplebetween 1 and 20 kg or more. Alternatively or additionally, the doorstopmay not block removal of the cartridge and/or there may not be a lockinglatch blocking removal of the cartridge).

Caveats

As used herein the term “about” refers to ±5%

The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “having”and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to”.

The term “consisting of” means “including and limited to”.

The term “consisting essentially of” means that the composition, methodor structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, butonly if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materiallyalter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition,method or structure.

As used herein, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include pluralreferences unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example,the term “a compound” or “at least one compound” may include a pluralityof compounds, including mixtures thereof.

Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention maybe presented in a range format. It should be understood that thedescription in range format is merely for convenience and brevity andshould not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of theinvention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be consideredto have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well asindividual numerical values within that range. For example, descriptionof a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specificallydisclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numberswithin that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This appliesregardless of the breadth of the range.

Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to includeany cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range.The phrases “ranging/ranges between” a first indicate number and asecond indicate number and “ranging/ranges from” a first indicate number“to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and aremeant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all thefractional and integral numerals therebetween.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, forclarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also beprovided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, variousfeatures of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in thecontext of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or inany suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other describedembodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the contextof various embodiments are not to be considered essential features ofthose embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without thoseelements.

Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specificembodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modificationsand variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives,modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scopeof the appended claims.

All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in thisspecification are herein incorporated in their entirety by referenceinto the specification, to the same extent as if each individualpublication, patent or patent application was specifically andindividually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. Inaddition, citation or identification of any reference in thisapplication shall not be construed as an admission that such referenceis available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent thatsection headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarilylimiting.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of preparing a drug delivery apparatus for use the apparatus including a housing having a insertion channel and a cartridge configured for insertion into said channel and a door to said channel, the method comprising: supplying the apparatus in a transport state wherein the door at least partially blocks the channel and wherein a doorstop is in a obstructing mode, obstructing movement of the door into a fully closed state; opening the door; inserting the cartridge and thereby; shifting said doorstop from said obstructing mode into a non-obstructing mode; closing the door, and latching the door.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein opening the door increases a protrusion of the door from the housing.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: supporting a projection from the cartridge on the door when the door is in said closed state.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein said opening and closing include pivoting the door in a plane of an opening of the channel.
 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising, interconnecting a movable element of the cartridge to a motive element of the apparatus by via said closing, wherein said interconnecting is via a coupler mounted to said door.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein said latching is temporary.
 7. The method of claim 1, further including: supporting the door on said doorstop in said transport state.
 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising: impeding by said doorstop of a removal of the cartridge from the channel when said doorstop is in said non-obstructing mode.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein said doorstop includes a pin, and wherein upon closing the door with the cartridge inserted, the cartridge diverts said pin.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein said latching is to said doorstop. 